Confused about tax credits

[Blondie1993]

I claim working and child tax credits as a single parent. I live alone and have done ever since I split with DS dad 5-6 years ago. I have a boyfriend who has stayed overnight at my house once in the three years we have been together. We do not share finances in any way, shape or form. I stay at his house a few nights a week depending on when DS is at his dads. DS has never been in his house and they haven't seen each other in over a year (I prefer to keep my love life and my child separate).

I received the attached letter from HMRC today. I called them to clarify and they just said as long as I consider my claim as a single person to be correct then that's fine. They didn't really give anymore information. Can anyone confirm I am doing the right thing by claiming as a single person?

Yes you are fine. You have seperate households. You are entitled to a relationship.

Most likely just a standard letter sent to all lone parents.

Don't worry about the letter. Think it's just like a reminder that you need to tell them if a partner moves in etc. I got one the other year. Been single for 10 years

It's just a letter to check your circumstances are correct. Some people may not realise they should be claiming jointly or, occasionally, do not notify of a change to their circumstances deliberately.

Don't worry about it. It's only a reminder letter, and you don't need to take any further action.

I was told by a friend that you can have an overnight guest/stay at theirs a max of 3 x a week to stay within the law, it seems pretty clear cut for you as he doesn't stay at your house. It's a standard letter

It's a phishing letter. They are hoping that people will read it and cancel their claim so that they can meet targets.

I received one last year and the only males sleeping here are my sons and their friends if it's a sleepover.

Most likely just a standard letter sent to all lone parents.

This! Plus like said above they are hoping you will panic and cancel!

Thanks for the replies, they have put my mind at rest a bit!

Yes, you’re fine.

Remember it’s your finances they’re interested in, not your sex life.

I received one of these today too. I wouldn’t worry- it’s just that time of year.

I was told by a friend that you can have an overnight guest/stay at theirs a max of 3 x a week to stay within the law

I’ve seen versions of this all over MN - it’s not true. There are several ‘tests’ which means you could still ‘live together’ spending fewer nights together and not live together spending more nights.